Harold godwinson short biography

January 5th would become an important date for the future of the English monarchy as it marked not only the date of Edward the Confessor’s death, but the start of a series of events which would bring an end to the Anglo-Saxon domination of the British Isles and usher in a new chapter in British history.

Upon the death of Edward the Confessor, a succession crisis instantly emerged with challenges from Harald Hardrada and William, Duke of Normandy.

The man to take the English Crown however was Harold Godwinson, who only a day after Edward’s death was crowned at Westminster Abbey, ensuring his position as King Harold II.

Harold Godwinson, the Earl of Wessex, had been elected by the witan of England to be the new monarch, however his position was far from secure and he even faced challenges from his own family.

Born in the early s, Harold was the eldest son of Godwin, Earl of Wessex and Gytha, the daughter of a Danish chieftain.

His family, on both Saxon